Oak Park police increase patrols for St. Patrick's Day weekend

Wednesday, March 12th, 2014 5:36 PM

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Oak Park Police will beef up traffic patrols in the days leading up to St. Patrick's Day, March 17. Police will be looking for impaired drivers and motorists who aren't wearing safety belts March 13-17.

"St. Patrick's Day can be a deadly and dangerous time on our roadways because of drunk driving," said Deputy Police Chief Anthony Ambrose.

"Oak Park police will be working overtime to catch and arrest anyone who is driving drunk," he added.

The Oak Park police offer the following tips for avoiding a DUI or an accident.

• Plan ahead. Designate a sober driver before going out and give that person the keys.

• If you are drunk, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.

• Promptly report drunk drivers you see on the roadways to law enforcement by pulling over and dialing 911.

• Make sure everyone in your vehicle wears a seat belt. It is the best defense against a drunk driver.

If you are hosting a party, remember that you can be held liable if someone you serve is later involved in a drunk-driving crash. Help guests coordinate ride-sharing to prevent drunk driving. Include food and non-alcoholic beverage options for guests as well.